Any Spiderman fans out there? If so, you likely know the infamous line of Uncle Ben, “With great power comes great responsibility.” As Christians, we are called to live this truth with the Catholic Social Teaching tenant of Rights & Responsibilities.

The Church teaches that everyone should be treated with dignity. With human dignity comes rights that everyone deserves. These rights include resources such as food, water, a safe place to live, and a peaceful community. If you have access to these rights, then you have the responsibility to ensure that others do too.

At Catholic Charities Dallas, we recognize the dignity of all people by serving all those in need. We have the responsibility to ensure that everyone knows their rights, and we live this out in all our programs, including Immigration Legal Services.

At CCD, we are committed to helping individuals understand immigration law and know their rights under the law. Immigration Legal Services offers a broad range of immigration representation to eligible immigrants and their families. We serve victims of abuse, asylum seekers, refugees, those in need of visa petitions, and those seeking to become citizens. Catholic Charities serves our vulnerable sisters and brothers and welcomes the stranger, all in accordance with U.S. law.

Last year, we had consultations with over 17,000 individuals seeking information about services. Now, making an appointment is easier than ever with our new ChatBot feature on our website. The chat bot will walk you through questions to help find the best CCD representative to assist you with your needs.

There are many reasons why families may immigrate to the United States. Our bishops urge us to recognize that every person is created in the image and likeness of God. If you have questions about Church teachings on immigration, I encourage you to read the document “Migration & Catholic Social Teaching” from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, linked below.

Last month, Pope Leo XIV urged world leaders to recognize their responsibility for peace.  He said, “May those who make decisions always keep in mind their responsibility for the consequences their choices have on populations. May they not ignore the needs of the most vulnerable and the universal desire for peace.”

I pray we take these words to heart and live them out in our own community and our own homes. Until next time! 

Learn more about CST

• Examination of Conscience in Light of CST
  • English PDF
  • Spanish PDF
  • Find out more about presentation options here: Host a talk by Devyn